Third-Gen BMW X1 And iX1 LWB Bows During Auto Shanghai 2023

In case you weren’t aware, major European marques have been building and selling stretched-out versions of their key models specifically for consumers in China. This stems from the unique demand of buyers in China who values rear passenger space and comfort above many other aspects.

To that, German marque BMW continues to sate this demand in said republic with both its third generation X1 and iX1 crossover SUVs. At the recent Auto Shanghai 2023 show, the marque rolled out stretched-out (long wheelbase – LWB) versions of both models.

One key addition besides increased legroom in both is a panoramic glass roof feature.

BMW didn’t disclose much other than stating that both follow in the footsteps of the standard crossover and have adopted slightly longer rear doors. Besides that, both also gain expansive panoramic glass roofs, as well as comfortable rear seats that are abundant with legroom.

“Made in China for China,” the models measure 4,616 MM long and have a wheelbase that spans 2,802 MM. Compared to the regular wheelbase models they underpin, both the X1 and iX1 LWB version sit 116 MM longer than with a wheelbase stretched out by 110 MM.

Sitting 116 MM longer with a wheelbase stretched by 110 MM, rear passenger space in both the X1 and iX1 LWB have become more abundant.

For the combustion-powered X1 LWB, it retains the familiar 1.5-litre 3-cyl turbo and 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo powertrains seen in the base X1, the former rated ad 154 HP and 230 NM whilst the latter serves up 201 HP and 300 NM.

For the entry-level X1 LWB variant, key equipment primed include LED headlights, panoramic glass roof, and 18-inch alloy wheels. On board, the cabin is laced with Veganza leather sport seats, high-gloss black trim, and a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

Key on board tech include BMW’s signature 10.25-inch digital instrument display plus a 10.7-inch infotainment system that runs on the brand’s latest BMW OS 9.

China-only iX1 LWB also gets a "sculpted crystal grille" that's fully enclosed.

As for the iX1 LWB, the Bavarian marque had even less to say about it apart from noting “some particularly sophisticated touches for the Chinese market in terms of digitalisation.” The firm also confirmed that this version of the iX1 harnesses a dual-motor and all-wheel drive (AWD) setup.

Additionally, besides the panoramic glass roof mentioned, the China-only iX1 LWB also boasts a “sculpted crystal grille” that is fully enclosed.

Presently, both the X1 and iX1 LWB are made in and for China exclusively.

Whilst BMW didn’t disclose the iX1’s electric powertrain’s outputs, we reckon it would be similar to the European-spec iX1 xDrive 30i. Said variant, which also harnesses a dual-motor plus AWD setup and a 64.7 kWh battery, outputs 308 HP and 494 NM with a claimed range of 439 KM.

Presently, it seems unlikely that we’ll see either LWB versions of the third-gen X1 and iX1 going on sale elsewhere outside China. Locally, BMW Group Malaysia officially offers just two LWB models, those being the recently refreshed G20-generation 2023 BMW 330Li and the G12-generation BMW 740Le.